What is Cove Moulding and What is it Used for?

If you’re looking for a simple and elegant finishing touch to update and enhance a space, look no further than cove moulding. Cove moulding, sometimes called coving, is a trim type that people often confuse with crown moulding because of their similarities. However, cove moulding is a trim type all its own.

In this article, we’ll get into everything you need to know about cove moulding, including what it’s used for and how it’s different from crown moulding. Plus, we’ll share a few insider tips about installation and more, so you can determine if cove moulding is something you want to add to your home’s interior.

What is Cove Moulding?

Cove moulding is a type of trim found inside homes, generally in the corner where the wall meets the ceiling. However, cove moulding can also be used on cabinets, shelves, mantles, and more.

Source: Wikimedia

What makes cove moulding distinctive is its concave profile. In other words, the shape of cove moulding is an inward bowing curve. Cove moulding is measured by width and length (in that order). Some types of cove moulding are narrow, while others are thicker.

Like other moulding types, cove moulding can come in a variety of materials, including vinyl, PVC, wood (like solid pine and oak), and MDF, and it can be painted and finished to match nearly any design aesthetic.

What is Cove Moulding Used for?

Concave moulding is primarily used to smooth the transition between the ceiling and the wall. It’s usually used to soften the transition on the inside corners of walls or to hide visible joints, but as discussed, you can find cove moulding all over different areas of the home.

Like other moulding types, cove moulding can be used for its functional purpose (to hide and smooth transitions), but it can also be used simply as a decorative element to add wherever you see fit or in conjunction with other moulding types to create stacked or compound moulding, making it a versatile finishing touch.

Cove Moulding vs. Crown Moulding

If you’re familiar with other moulding types, you’ve probably noticed that cove moulding sounds pretty similar to crown moulding. What makes these two moulding types different? Let’s look at the similarities and differences between cove and crown moulding.

Similarities Between Cove and Crown Moulding

Crown and cove moulding are both finishing touches used inside the home. Most commonly, they’re used to soften the transition between the wall and the ceiling. 

Both can make a room look larger and add to the overall dimensions and texture of a room. In addition, cove moulding and crown moulding can come in various materials, colors, and profiles to match any aesthetic.

Differences Between Cove and Crown Moulding

Despite their many similarities, crown and cove moulding have some notable differences. For one, crown and cove moulding have very different appearances. Cove moulding bows inward, whereas crown moulding protrudes outwards. Additionally, cove moulding is most commonly found in the corners, and crown moulding is generally used along the whole wall.

Cove Moulding Installation Considerations

There are a few things to consider regarding cove moulding installation. For one, you want to ensure you have high-quality cove moulding from the start because it will make the entire process much more manageable.

Next, you want to make sure to choose a cove moulding type that complements the rest of your design. Then, take extra time to measure where you’ll be placing the cove moulding. Finally, if possible, be sure and order extra cove moulding to account for any installation accidents.

When in doubt, be sure to call in a professional to help with installation. While it may cost more upfront, it can save you loads of money (and hassle) in the long run. 

Speaking of costs, cove moulding is a relatively cost-effective moulding type with a price option for nearly every budget.

Get Gorgeous, High-Quality Cove Moulding for Your Home

Cove moulding is a beautiful addition to any home. Its concave shape adds dimension to a room and seamlessly transitions the wall to the ceiling without drawing focus. If you’re ready to get started with cove moulding for your home, you’ve come to the right place.

At Metrie, we specialize in crafting high-quality trim and moulding. We bring in the world’s top designers to ensure our pieces are at the cutting-edge of trendy and classic design. So no matter your aesthetic, we have a high-quality and gorgeous cove moulding type to fit your aesthetic.

If you aren’t sure what your aesthetic is, give Option {M} a try. It’s our innovative design tool that pairs finishing touches with popular design aesthetics.